Atmospheric Clouds

Atmospheric clouds are collections of tiny water droplets and/or ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere. They are important to the Earth's climate system as they reflect incoming solar radiation and moderate the temperature of the atmosphere. Clouds also play a vital role in the hydrological cycle by producing precipitation which is essential for the growth and nourishment of plants and for providing water for humans, animals and other organisms. Clouds also act as a source of moisture for evapotranspiration, a process of exchanging water and energy between the land surface and atmosphere. Clouds also aid in weather forecasting and can help detect volcanic eruptions.